Marketing Municipal Government Vernon

March 12, 1996

Vernon Mayor Tony Muro is giving the term full-service supermarket new meaning, offering moments with the mayor alongside the produce at local grocery stores. Mr. Muro should be commended for recognizing who he really works for -- the townspeople -- and reaching out to them. By going where many residents spend time, he's making municipal government serve people better.

Mr. Muro plans to hold monthly office hours at supermarkets to talk to people and learn about their problems. Earlier this month, he set up a table at Shaw's Supermarket. He even brought along voter registration applications.

The approach worked. Given an easy way to contact a town official, many people responded. About 20 stopped to talk to the mayor, with the satisfaction that whether their problems were solved or not, they got a chance to be heard.

Mr. Muro isn't the first town executive to set up shop among the grocery shelves. Stafford First Selectman John Julian has held occasional office hours at Judy's Country Store, a grocery and sandwich shop. If this idea becomes a trend, busy townspeople may feel more inclined to get involved.

Given more chances to talk one-on-one with local officials, people could become more interested in the town. They may volunteer in greater numbers. When residents believe a town official is interested in their concerns, they are more likely to care about what's going on in their community.

Next time Vernon residents spot Mr. Muro among the grocery aisles, they should make a point of talking to him. While they are giving him their opinions on local politics or complaining of an unplowed street, they also should thank him -- just for being there.